M10News Report | Washington, D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday demanded the death penalty for the man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk, following confirmation that authorities had captured a suspect after a nationwide manhunt.
Trump Speaks Out on Fox & Friends
Trump made the remarks during an interview on Fox News, calling Kirk’s killing “pure evil” and insisting the punishment must be severe.
“I hope he’s going to be found guilty, I would imagine. And I hope he gets the death penalty,” Trump said. “Charlie Kirk was the finest person. He didn’t deserve this. He worked so hard and so well. Everybody liked him.”
The Arrest of the Suspect
According to Trump, the arrest came after a person close to the suspect recognised him and contacted law enforcement. That individual, described as a minister, worked with the suspect’s father and a U.S. marshal to secure his surrender.
“Somebody very close to him said, ‘Hmm, that’s him.’ He went to the father, who then worked with a U.S. marshal,” Trump explained. “The father convinced the son that this was it, and he gave himself up.”
A Nation in Shock
The murder of Charlie Kirk, who founded Turning Point USA and became one of the most visible conservative voices of his generation, has shocked political circles and grassroots supporters alike.
Kirk was shot dead on Wednesday evening while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem, leaving students and staff scrambling for cover in scenes of panic and disbelief.
Chaos at Utah Valley University
Witnesses say the shooting occurred in the middle of Kirk’s address, triggering an alarm in the packed auditorium. Security teams rushed attendees to safety as paramedics attempted to save Kirk.
Despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Utah Officials to Address the Nation
Utah Governor Spencer Cox, FBI Director Kash Patel, and other senior officials are expected to hold a press conference in Salt Lake City to outline the details of the suspect’s arrest and the charges he now faces.
Officials have not yet released the suspect’s identity, but confirmed that he is in custody and could face capital charges.
Trump Praises Law Enforcement
Trump, who first announced the arrest during his TV appearance, praised the cooperation between federal and local authorities.
“The U.S. Marshal involved was fantastic,” Trump said, adding that the swift action showed “how good people can come together when faced with something so horrible.”
A Minister’s Role
Unusually, Trump credited a religious leader with playing a pivotal role in bringing the suspect in. The unnamed minister reportedly recognised the killer, worked with the family, and ultimately persuaded the father to ensure his son surrendered peacefully.
Kirk’s Legacy
Charlie Kirk, 30, was known as a conservative activist, author, and commentator who built Turning Point USA into a nationwide student movement. His ability to galvanise young conservatives made him a key figure in right-wing politics.
“He worked so hard and so well,” Trump reflected. “Everybody liked him.”
National Reaction
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with many describing Kirk as fearless, passionate, and deeply dedicated to his mission.
House Speaker Mike Johnson called the killing “an attack not just on Charlie but on free speech in America.”
Security Concerns at Campuses
The shooting has reignited debates over campus security and the safety of high-profile speakers. Utah Valley University officials have promised a review of protocols and said counselling would be offered to students traumatised by the events.
Political Violence in Focus
Trump tied the killing to broader concerns about political violence in the United States.
“What happened was pure evil,” Trump said. “This must serve as a warning: we will never tolerate political violence in America.”
Investigation Continues
The FBI has confirmed that its counterterrorism unit is supporting local law enforcement in the investigation, though no motive has been publicly disclosed.
Sources say authorities are combing through the suspect’s digital footprint to determine whether the act was politically motivated.
Possible Death Penalty Case
Legal experts note that under Utah law and federal statutes, the suspect could face the death penalty if convicted of first-degree murder involving a public figure.
“It would be one of the highest-profile capital cases in the U.S. in years,” said criminal defence attorney Mark Johnson.
Utah Community in Mourning
In Orem, students and residents have begun leaving flowers and notes outside the university auditorium where Kirk was killed.
“It feels unreal,” said one student attendee. “You never think something like this will happen at your school.”
Trump Links Case to His Movement
For Trump, the killing of Kirk, who was a vocal supporter of the former president, has taken on personal significance.
“Charlie believed in America, he believed in freedom, and he was a friend,” Trump said.
Family Statement Expected
The Kirk family has not yet released a formal statement, but is expected to do so in the coming days. Turning Point USA has announced it will hold a memorial event in Kirk’s honour.
International Reaction
The news has made headlines globally, with leaders from Canada, the UK, and Australia condemning the violence.
The incident has also sparked debate on social media, where both supporters and critics of Kirk have weighed in on the implications.
Awaiting Further Details
As officials prepare their press briefing, the nation waits for more information about the suspect, his motives, and how the case will proceed in court.
A Turning Point in U.S. Politics?
For many, Kirk’s killing marks a dark moment in American politics. Whether it becomes a rallying cry against political violence or further deepens division remains to be seen.
M10News will continue to provide updates as the story develops.
